Something exciting is happening in U.S. politics, though you probably have not seen it discussed on the nightly news. Democracy Unbound tells the inspiring story of how progressives across the country are building grassroots alternatives to Republican and Democratic party politics. The first half of 1996 alone saw hundreds of independent and progressive activists elected to local school boards, planning commissions, city councils, and county boards -- as well as an independent socialist re-elected to the U.S. House of Representatives. These activists are rebuilding the democratic ideal in which grassroots organizing drives party policies, candidates stand for substance, and citizens directly shape politics for the common good. Looking beyond the Democrats, Republicans, and billionaire Ross Perot's Reform Party, Democracy Unbound offers a comprehensive guide to progressive political organizing for real democracy, human rights, community renewal, and a fair and sustainable economy. Through compelling stories of successful campaigns by groups across the country, the book provides a detailed picture of how ordinary people can reshape politics in their communities, and explains the contrasting strategies of groups like the New Party, labor-community coalitions, the Labor Party, the Greens, the Campaign for a New Tomorrow, and other third-party coalition efforts. This inspiring book also uncovers the forgotten history of powerful third-party movements in the United States, identifies the potential obstacles confronting grassroots activists, and explains how and why independent political organizing is re-emerging today. Embracing a diverse spectrum of communities and issues, DemocracyUnbound is a valuable resource for addressing a wide range of concerns: community organizing, African-American politics, labor unions, environmentalism, local government, social movements, political parties, and electoral politics.